Healthcare infrastructure in Ukraine is experiencing unprecedented levels of attack from Russian forces, according to accounts from medical personnel and international organizations monitoring the conflict. The World Health Organization has documented over 3,100 attacks on healthcare facilities since the Russian invasion began in 2022, averaging two incidents daily. Attack frequency has shown a consistent upward trajectory, with 2024 seeing a 30 percent increase compared to 2023, followed by another 20 percent rise in the following year.
Paramedics and hospital staff describe harrowing experiences while attempting to provide emergency care. One ambulance crew reported being pursued by armed drones for extended periods while responding to casualties. Multiple drone strikes have targeted the same locations in rapid succession, a tactic known as “double-tap” attacks that first responders believe is intentionally designed to maximize casualties among rescue personnel. Recent incidents include missile strikes on a hospital in Kherson that killed medical staff, and coordinated attacks on Kyiv that resulted in seven fatalities including emergency responders.
Medical organizations emphasize that first-person view drone strikes are almost always intentional, as operators can observe targets in real-time video feeds. When attacks strike clearly marked ambulances with uniformed medical personnel, operators must be making deliberate targeting decisions. Ambulance strikes comprise approximately 20 percent of all healthcare facility attacks, suggesting a calculated strategic approach rather than accidental collateral damage.
The sustained campaign has forced significant operational changes among medical providers. Mobile clinics have progressively retreated from conflict zones, with operational distances expanding from 5-8 kilometers from frontlines two years ago to 30 kilometers currently. Doctors Without Borders has suspended regular visits to approximately 80 villages and paused ambulance services in major eastern cities. Consequently, civilian populations near active combat zones, predominantly elderly individuals with chronic conditions, face severe restrictions on access to medical services and medications.
International humanitarian organizations report sharing facility coordinates with both Russian and Ukrainian forces for protection, yet attacks persist. Medical workers describe operating under constant threat, with some police forces being dispatched instead of ambulances in high-risk areas. Healthcare professionals express concerns that established international rules governing warfare protections for medical personnel are not being observed in the conflict.
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